Fireworks warehouse explodes in Armenia mall, killing 3, injuring dozens
- Rescuers and volunteers searched amid still-exploding fireworks for victims who might be trapped under slabs of concrete and twisted metal
- There was no immediate word on what caused the fireworks to ignite at the Surmalu market in Yerevan
Blasts ripped through a fireworks warehouse in a shopping centre in the Armenian capital of Yerevan on Sunday, Russian news agencies reported, killing three people and injuring more than 60.
Video footage showed grey smoke billowing over a building and people scurrying away from the area.
Rescuers sifted through twisted metal and rubble in a search for survivors as clouds of dust and smoke hung in the air. Bystanders helped victims move to safe areas.
Interfax news agency quoted Armenia’s Emergency Ministry as saying the body of a third victim had been recovered. Officials had earlier reported two deaths.
Emergencies Minister Armen Pambukhchyan, quoted by Sputnik Armenia news agency, said the fire had been extinguished, but strong winds still posed a threat. He said rescue teams would continue the search for survivors through the night.
The Emergencies Ministry said initial investigation showed two large explosions brought down part of a building housing fireworks.